R + P Post 4: Representation of social groups in our opening sequence

In our opening sequence we represent members of the LGBT community. The different sexualities represented mean that a large majority of our TA (target audience) may feel represented. We chose two represent two contrasting characters in order to avoid enforcing stereotypes. By avoiding the predictable 'camp' characterisation through our protagonist, we create a more believable character. This may also be seen as a U.S.P (unique selling point) for our film as it showcases a community and characters that are rarely explored in modern media. A love story between two males may also be seen as a U.S.P as their are not many representations of this type of story within the mainstream media.

Statistics revealing the lack of LGBT representation in film 

Being gay is not seen as downfall of our protagonist and does not have any particularly affect of his characteristics. This helps to break down the prejudice towards the gay community and shows the audience that the people within the LGBT community are the same as those out of it. They go through the same situations and must overcome similar obstacles in life. This is why we felt that it was important to include a moment of conflict within our film opening as we wanted the gratification of an idealistic presentation of the world to be apparent, without creating a world that could be deemed realistic. It also reveals the very apparent presence of homophobes within modern society. This harsh and somewhat disturbing realism forces the audience to be educated to the discrimination that many people within the LGBT community go through.

We felt that creating a 'coming of age' film would be an efficient way to depict the journey that many gay people go through for self acceptance. As the film continues we are able to see Craig develop his own self confidence as he embraces himself and his sexuality. We felt that it was important to portray him as a stereotypical teenager with hobbies such as listening to vinyls and sketching in his notebook so his is seen as a likable and multi dimensional character.

Shot of Craig writing in his notebook with an average representation of a cluttered teenage bedroom